Pacific Northwest

[DenverTransplant]

Looks like we are making a trip to the Pacific Northwest this summer. I'm looking for some input on best places to stay in the Mt Rainier area and the Mt St. Helens/Columbia River/Mt. Hood area.

After Washington/Oregon we will head for places better known in Northern California. Looking forward to getting back to my "home" park - Lassen Volcanic National Park.

[99dart]

As an ocean lover, I highly recommend a trip up the Washington coast. It has a more rugged coastline than Oregon. Since swimming is pretty much out of the question, (way too cold) the sandy beaches of Oregon get pretty boring for me. We don't frequent the Rainier/St. Helens area, so don't know anything that stands out. As far as the Columbia gorge/river along I-84, there are several state parks along the the freeway. That said, it's NOISY! Trains are running all night/day blowing horns and rumbling engines. I suggest going inland from the freeway for better camping.

[Elite Washington]

I haven’t been in Mt St. Helens area in years so can’t say what’s the best campground near the Mountain. But I will echo what was said regarding the campgrounds along I84 besides the noise from the trains they also have some size limitations. Additionally going further east from Portland the bridges start to have limitations on the size of vehicle as well.